Karelian Bobtail

The Karelian Bobtail is a rare natural bobtail breed associated with the Karelia region near the borderlands of Russia and Finland. It is separate from the better-known Kurilian Bobtail, with its own regional history and a short, kinked or curved tail that can vary from cat to cat. Both shorthaired and semilonghaired coats are described, and the general impression is usually moderate and domestic rather than extreme, with sturdy proportions and a weather-suited coat.

Because the breed is uncommon, careful identification matters. A Karelian Bobtail should not be assumed from any short-tailed cat unless there is pedigree or regional evidence. Breeding programs need to protect a small gene pool while keeping tail structure, mobility, and general health in view. For owners, care is similar to other active domestic cats: regular coat checks, weight control, play, and routine veterinary attention. The tail should be handled gently and described accurately in records, since length and shape are part of the breed identity.

Colors: Bicolor, Black, Blue, Blue Point, Brown, Calico, Chocolate, Chocolate Point, Cinnamon, Classic Tabby, Cream, Cream Point, Dilute Calico, Dilute Tortoiseshell, Fawn, Flame Point, Golden, Harlequin, Lilac, Lilac Point, Lynx Point, Mackerel Tabby, Mink, Pointed, Red, Seal Point, Sepia, Shaded, Shell, Silver, Smoke, Spotted Tabby, Tabby, Ticked Tabby, Torbie, Tortoiseshell, Van, White